Category: Daily Financial Times

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Sri Lanka (CA Sri Lanka) yesterday announced that it has formally presented its proposals for the forthcoming National Budget 2026 to the Government.

The proposals presented by CA Sri Lanka addresses several critical pillars of fiscal management, including policy planning and implementation, the establishment of a Tax Ombudsman, enhancing strategic trade policy and broadening the export base.

It also included reforming the tax system to ensure equity and drive growth, reducing cash usage and promoting digital transactions, amendments to the administrative provisions, transformations within the State Sector, and strengthening fiscal discipline through the Public Finance Management Act.

The proposal was presented to Finance Secretary Dr. Harshana Suriyapperuma. The delegation was led by the CA Sri Lanka President Heshana Kuruppu, together with Members of Council.

In addition to the budget proposals, CA Sri Lanka also presented the findings of its comprehensive Tax Perception Survey to Dr Suriyapperuma. The survey provides invaluable, data-driven insights into the perspectives of Chartered Accountants on the current tax system, offering a critical evidence base for future reforms and improvements.

Kuruppu said that as the national body of accountants, CA Sri Lanka has a profound responsibility to actively contribute to the economic dialogue of the country.

‘Our proposals for the National Budget 2026 are not merely recommendations, but they are the culmination of rigorous research and expert analysis from our members who are at the forefront of the economy,’ he said.

‘We believe that implementing these measures will be pivotal in enhancing revenue collection, ensuring equity, fostering a conducive environment for investment, and ultimately driving sustainable economic growth for all Sri Lankans,’ he added.

The recently concluded 17th Asia Cup exposed several frailties in the Sri Lanka T20I cricket team’s line-up which, if not properly addressed, could see them faltering in the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup as well.

That could be quite detrimental not only to the players but more so to the coaching staff whose every move is under scrutiny by the detractors.

Sri Lanka has shown that they are not short of talent or inspiration to perform at their best against any opposition like they did against eventual Asia Cup champions India in their final Super Fours game which ended in a tie and subsequently won by India in the super-over.

The 2025 Asia Cup for Sri Lanka has been all about the extraordinary batting of Pathum Nissanka who is gradually scaling the heights that our past legends have reached. Currently, he is in a different plane compared to the rest of his team mates when it comes to batting.

The biggest problem with the team leaving aside composition and team selections is lack of consistency in their performances. This team performs in a blow hot blow cold manner that leaves everyone exasperated doubting their ability to perform under pressure. One day they are brilliant, the next rather ordinary. Champion teams don’t perform in that manner. India is a great example of how champion teams perform. They won each and every match of the Asia Cup to lift the title for the ninth time in the tournament’s history.

When Sri Lanka won the 1996 Cricket World Cup, they did the same, winning every game they played although two of the group games were walk-overs due to Australia and West Indies concern over security.

What has been quite noticeable with the present team is that when Pathum Nissanka or Kusal Mendis delivers the team always wins. This should not be the case, for the middle order too has to contribute. The issue here is that the momentum given by the two openers in the power play is not continued by the middle order batters. This is an area that needs to be rectified quickly for Sri Lanka is running short of time as they keep on experimenting with their middle order. At least by now they should have a settled middle order. You cannot go to a world event without having a stable batting line-up.

The lack of a pinch-hitter at the crucial no. 6 position is also hurting Sri Lanka a lot. The other aspect is that Sri Lanka must decide once and for all whether they are comfortable going with a 7-4 combination or a 6-5 combination for their matches. A 7-4 combination tried out during the Asia Cup left them short of a fifth bowler, resulting in part-time bowlers trying to do the job and leaking extra runs. A 6-5 combination (where the fifth bowling option should be an all-rounder) is what should be giving the captain the opportunity of getting the opposition out or restricting them. This would mean more responsibility on the six batsmen to deliver. If the top six cannot put enough runs on the board they are not worthy of their place in the team.

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has sacrificed Test matches to include more white ball games this year to prepare the team for the T20 World Cup. Thus, it is imperative that the opportunity is made use of fully. The repercussions that could follow if they fail to fulfil the requirements of the nation, can have far reaching consequences.

United Motors, the exclusive distributor for Mitsubishi Motors in Sri Lanka for over four decades, has announced the arrival of the versatile 2025 Mitsubishi range. The lineup, which includes 4 Mid-Range SUVs, the formidable Triton double cab, and the efficient Attrage sedan, was officially unveiled at a special event at Hyde Park Corner, marking a significant milestone for the company.

The 2025 models feature a modern, aerodynamic design and advanced, fuel-efficient engines across the range. The showcase spotlights the robust Mitsubishi family, with a special highlight on the dynamic all-new Outlander Sport.

Spotlight on new arrival: All-new Outlander Sport

Blending aggressive style with versatile performance, the Outlander Sport is designed for the urban explorer. It features a bold new design language, an advanced infotainment system with smartphone integration, and a suite of Mitsubishi’s latest safety technologies, making every journey both connected and secure.

‘The arrival of this new 2025 range energises our commitment to delivering not just vehicles, but confidence and unforgettable experiences,’ said United Motors Group CEO/Executive Director Chanaka Yatawara. ‘We support every Mitsubishi with our best-in-class after-sales service across eight locations nationwide, ensuring peace of mind for every owner.’

The 2025 lineup presents a comprehensive portfolio for every need. Which features the versatile mid-range SUVs, including the Expander, Expander Cross, and Eclipse Cross, alongside the high-end range of the Outlander and Montero Sport. The range is complemented by the Triton double cab, renowned for its robust suspension and comfortable, well-appointed interior, and the stylish Attrage sedan. Each model is renowned for its outstanding performance, reliability, and exceptional value.

We invite customers and enthusiasts to visit any United Motors showroom to experience the 2025 Mitsubishi lineup first-hand.

For those seeking a vehicle that combines modern design, fuel efficiency and reliability, the 2025 Mitsubishi range is unmissable. Think SUV. Think Mitsubishi.